Farhan to captain youthful side as Pakistan hand opportunities to emerging talent
Pakistan have named a youthful 15-player squad for the 2026 Asian Games, with four uncapped players earning opportunities to represent the national side in the T20 tournament scheduled to begin in Japan on September 24.
Fast bowler Akif Javed, pacer Ali Raza, all-rounder Maaz Sadaqat and batter Saad Masood have all been included and could make their T20I debuts during the tournament.
Experienced opener Sahibzada Farhan has been appointed captain of the side, while Abdul Samad will serve as vice-captain.
The selection highlights Pakistan’s focus on developing emerging talent and providing international exposure to promising players as they prepare for future global tournaments. The 10-team cricket competition at the Asian Games will offer several young cricketers the chance to impress on the international stage.
Pakistan squad: Sahibzada Farhan (C), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Ahmed Daniyal, Akif Javed, Ali Raza, Arafat Minhas, Haider Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Saad Masood, Saim Ayub, Sufyan Moqim, Usman Khan
